News

11 councils across Hampshire have today submitted a joint business case to Government proposing the creation of four new unitary authorities for mainland Hampshire. The submission, titled “Close enough to be local, big enough to stay strong”, sets out a vision for modern, sustainable local government that delivers better services while staying rooted in local communities.

The proposal is backed by an overwhelming majority of councils in Hampshire (Basingstoke and Deane, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hart, Havant, New Forest, Portsmouth*, Rushmoor, Southampton, Test Valley, and Winchester), representing more than three quarters of local authorities in the area.

The new structure would see four new councils formed, grouped around the major centres of Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester and Basingstoke. The Isle of Wight would stay its own island unitary authority, as it currently is. All three proposed options meet the Government’s criteria for reorganisation, with an average population size of 500,000, and financial analysis shows that all three options would deliver over £63 million in recurring annual savings, through streamlined services, reduced duplication, and more efficient governance.

The business case is informed by one of the largest public engagement exercises ever undertaken by local government in the region. More than 13,000 residents across Hampshire and Isle of Wight took part in the engagement, sharing their views on identity, service delivery, and what matters most to them in future council arrangements.

Cllr Paul Harvey, Leader of Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council and speaking on behalf of the 11 councils jointly submitting the proposal, said:

“The business case we’re submitting today is the product of significant, collaborative work by councils who know their communities and want the best for them.

“It reflects our shared belief that services should be run by councils big enough to be sustainable but close enough to remain local. With consistent financial benefits, strong public backing, and a structure that fits how people actually live their lives, this proposal is the right choice for Hampshire.”

The submission will now be considered by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), who are expected to run a public consultation on the proposals later this year.